Lot 1030

Desirable Antique Marlin Model 1888 Lever Action Rifle

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Desirable Antique Marlin Model 1888 Lever Action Rifle

Estimate: $5,500 - $8,500

Starting Bid: $4,750

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 22, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Rare and Highly Desirable Antique Marlin Model 1888 Lever Action Rifle Manufactured in 1889, this is an exceptional example of the rare Marlin Model 1888 rifle. These Marlin Model 1888s are very rare and significant in their own right, being the company's last top ejecting lever action design prior to utilizing L.L. Hepburn's patent for side ejection on the Model 1889, which would carry on through their lever action repeaters going forward. Only 4,814 of the model were produced before production shifted to the Hepburn updated Model 1889, making any variation of the Model 1888 rare on the collectors market. The top flat of the barrel is marked with the two-line address and patent dates, as well as the caliber marking at the breech. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver. It is fitted with a German silver "Rocky Mountain" type blade front sight, an elevation adjustable notch rear sight, and a combination peep sight on the upper tang. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Manufacturer: Marlin Firearms Co

Model: 1888

BBL: 24 inch octagon

Stock: walnut

Gauge: 38-40 WCF

Finish: blue

Serial Number24027

Class: Antique

  • Condition: Exceptionally fine, retains 80% of the bright original blue finish and 85% of the vibrant original case colors, remaining vibrant in sheltered areas with the balance mostly grey patina, including a cleaned patch on the right of the receiver, and a few scattered specks of light oxidation. The wood is excellent with a minor scrape on the right rear of the stock and otherwise very light handling marks. Mechanically excellent. These Marlin Model 1888s are rare, particularly in high condition like this!

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000